Middle East Tourism

Tourists from the Middle East, and Saudi Arabia in particular, have become much more important in Malaysia since 9-11 Malaysians tell me repeatedly, whilst also noting that the number of tourists from Europe, America, Australia and New Zealand have declined sharply. This is the ‘Arab season’. The way they talk suggests that the influx of Arabs is a mixed blessing. There is no great enthusiasm for the culture they bring - especially the black veils and a level of arrogance the Malaysians find astounding. With little English, an unwillingness to mix with the locals and a tendency to treat Malaysians as though they were servants they have not become popular, despite the fact that Malaysia is a largely Muslim country. Renting expensive suites for several months at a time, travelling complete with maids and nannies and an excess of children, and spending conspicuously, is also causing resentment in a country where wages are still quite low and the cost of living and unemployment both rising.